The Appalachian Highlands Celts invite the public to celebrate the rich history, music, and traditions of the Seven Celtic Nations during their 2026 Celtic Festival, taking place September 4–6, 2026, at the historic Tipton Haynes State Historic Site in Johnson City, Tennessee.
Saturday and Sunday will offer an unforgettable weekend of Celtic music, history, athletics, food, shopping, and family entertainment.
This year’s entertainment lineup includes:
The Jacobites By Name (Nashville, TN)
Matt Hughes, performing all the way from Pennsylvania
Sandra Parker, Celtic harpist
BratFolk,
Ginny & the Weasels
And an appearance by Ireland’s legendary Pirate Queen Grace O’Malley and her crew
Visitors will also enjoy thrilling historical combat demonstrations presented by Everblade Academy, featuring sword fighting exhibitions, historical weapons demonstrations, and interactive educational presentations throughout the weekend.
Adding to the authentic Celtic atmosphere will be performances by two outstanding pipe bands:
Knoxville Pipes & Drums
Alhambra Highlanders Pipes & Drums
Festival guests can explore numerous Scottish, Irish, Welsh, Cornish, Breton, Manx, and Galician clan tents, making it the perfect opportunity to discover family heritage and connect with Celtic traditions.
Families will find plenty to enjoy with children’s activities, Highland sheep, live blacksmithing demonstrations, and interactive educational exhibits.
The Southeastern Highland Athletics Group (SHAG) will be hosting exciting Highland Games demonstrations and competitions. Including the crowd pleasing Best Mustache in a Kilt Competition where yes, contestants must have both a mustache and a kilt to compete!
Shoppers will discover a wide variety of handcrafted goods from artisan vendors, including renowned Bear Hollow Kilt Makers, along with Celtic jewelry, clothing, artwork, gifts, and traditional crafts, and a variety of foods including turkey legs!
Admission is $10 for a day pass or $15 for a full weekend pass. Tickets may be purchased at the gate or online in advance to skip the entry line.
The Appalachian Highlands Celts is a local nonprofit organization made up entirely of volunteers dedicated to preserving and promoting Celtic history, music, and culture throughout Northeast Tennessee. Through year round educational programs and community events, the organization works to bring Celtic traditions to life for people of all ages.